Sundance Institute

2020 New Frontier Sundance Film Festival

For which platforms do you accept XR project submissions?

We currently accept submissions for Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Acer VR Headset, Samsung Gear VR, and Daydream. If you have a project created for a different platform, please inquire with us directly at newfrontier@sundance.org about whether or not we can accept it.

Which formats/specifications are accepted for XR project submissions?

We accept any PC installation package that is compatible with Oculus Rift or HTC Vive, provided that your package does not exceed 10GB in size. For Samsung Gear VR, Google Daydream, or Cardboard, any application download package (.apk) or 360° video file that will work with either platform is accepted. These files must be delivered to us via any standard file sharing service (Dropbox, WeTransfer, etc.) by providing a download link directly on the application. Additionally, we ask that you also provide a 2D video file (preferably H.264 with AAC audio).

May I submit a New Frontier project as a work in progress?

Yes, but the project needs to be complete enough for us to be able to make a decision. Please provide a thorough description of any missing elements, such as script or visual samples (including partial builds) along with your submission, and keep us updated with any visual aids you may have. Project demos are by invitation only; we suggest that you supply any materials you can to document your project.

When will I find out whether or not my project was selected?

We will email all applicants no later than the end of November. Please ensure that the email address you provided on your application remains updated until that time. If your email address changes after you’ve submitted the application, please email us at newfrontier@sundance.org with the update. We will not be held responsible for any failed delivery of status notifications. Please ensure that newfrontier@sundance.org is added to your address book or safe senders list.

Can I start an application for a New Frontier project, save it, and come back to finish it later?

Yes. You will have a chance to save a work-in-progress version of your application before officially submitting.

Can I deliver my application in person, or via mail or email?

We can only accept New Frontier applications directly through our website. Project demos are by invitation only. All New Frontier applications must be received by September 6.

If I am not accepted into the program, can I still receive feedback on my application?

Unfortunately, due to the volume of submissions we receive, we are unable to offer individual feedback to applicants for New Frontier projects.

Do you offer fee waivers?

Unfortunately, we cannot offer fee waivers to applicants submitting a film or New Frontier project. We strive to keep the selection process as thorough and unbiased as possible, and it is not fair to offer fee waivers to some but not to others. We encourage all applicants to take advantage of our early deadlines to save on submission fees.